mClient computers of various types with QuickTime Player or other MPEG-4 compliant software installed can access the Xserve streaming server via the campus network. Other client computers can access the streaming server via the Internet.

mThe broadcaster laptop running iMovie is used to produce high-quality on-demand versions of a live presentation after the presentation is concluded. The recorded digitized presentation is brought into the computer for compression through its FireWire connection using the DV camera.

Note: QuickTime Broadcaster can be set to record the encoded live stream to disk for archival purposes. However, it is desirable to encode the footage separately to achieve higher quality results.

mThe broadcaster laptop is also used to control the Xserve remotely through the laptop’s browser and the QTSS web-based Streaming Server Admin user interface.

Note: The laptop could also be connected to the local network wirelessly via an AirPort base station for extra portability. The AirPort is 802.11 compliant and works fine with QTSS. Its

11 megabits per second (Mbps) of bandwidth would be more than enough for our example setup unless other clients were also placing heavy demands on the same base station.

Setting It Up

The following steps show how to set up QuickTime Streaming Server and the other components needed for live and on-demand streaming in this hypothetical university setting.

Step 1: Prepare the Location

It will probably not be possible to find classrooms on a typical campus that provide a broadcasting and recording environment comparable to a professional television or recording studio. Still, there are measures that you can take to ensure reasonably good results:

mGo into a classroom or lecture room that you want to use for live streaming, close the doors, and listen for extraneous noise that could interfere with a broadcast. If noise from a nearby break room, video gaming area, street traffic, or other source is noticeable and can’t be eliminated, find another room.

mIf extraneous noise is not an issue, stand in the center of the room, clap your hands or shout, and listen for an echo. If you hear an echo, the sound quality of a live broadcast can be compromised. You can reduce or eliminate echoes by hanging heavy curtains on bare walls or placing acoustic panels in a checkerboard pattern on each wall.

mNext, examine the floors and furniture. Carpeted floors and padded chairs are best. A lectern should have a cloth on top, or other padded surface, to protect against noises such as the speaker’s setting down a glass of water.

Setup Example 57

Page 56 Page 58
Page 57
Image 57
Apple QuickTime Streaming Server Darwin Streaming Server manual Setting It Up, Prepare the Location
Page 56 Page 58

QuickTime Streaming Server Darwin Streaming Server specifications

Apple QuickTime Streaming Server, also known as Darwin Streaming Server, is a pivotal technology in the realm of multimedia streaming. Developed by Apple Inc., this open-source server software is designed specifically for the efficient delivery of video and audio content over the internet. One of the standout features of Darwin Streaming Server is its capability to stream content using the QuickTime file format, which is widely adopted for rich media applications.

A core characteristic of Darwin Streaming Server is its support for the Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP). This protocol enables the server to communicate effectively with user clients, ensuring smooth playback of multimedia content. RTSP also allows for advanced streaming capabilities, such as pause, rewind, and fast forward, providing users with a versatile viewing experience.

Darwin Streaming Server is built on a highly modular architecture that enhances its scalability and flexibility. It can easily handle multiple simultaneous streams, making it suitable for both small-scale projects and large-scale broadcast environments. The server can efficiently manage bandwidth, optimizing the delivery of content even during peak usage times.

Another notable feature of Darwin Streaming Server is its robust integration with Apple’s QuickTime technology. This compatibility enables the seamless distribution of interactive media, which is crucial for applications in education, entertainment, and corporate training. The server can stream both live and on-demand audio and video content, catering to a diverse audience.

Additionally, Darwin Streaming Server supports various streaming formats, including MP3 and AAC for audio and H.264 for video. This flexibility allows content creators to deliver high-quality media while maintaining compatibility with various devices and platforms, from desktop computers to mobile devices.

Security is another important aspect of Darwin Streaming Server. It supports encryption protocols, ensuring that sensitive content is protected during transmission. This is particularly valuable for organizations that need to secure proprietary content or deliver private media to specific audiences.

In conclusion, Apple QuickTime Streaming Server, or Darwin Streaming Server, stands out as a powerful tool for multimedia streaming. Its integration of RTSP, compatibility with QuickTime, modular architecture, and robust security features make it an ideal choice for businesses and content creators looking to deliver high-quality streaming experiences. Whether used for live broadcasts or on-demand content, Darwin Streaming Server remains a significant contributor to the evolution of online media delivery.
Top Page Image Contents